A scenic train travels along a rocky coast, bordered by lush greenery and the sparkling blue sea. Mountains rise in the distance under a clear blue sky.
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A scenic train travels along a rocky coast, bordered by lush greenery and the sparkling blue sea. Mountains rise in the distance under a clear blue sky. Map

10 Day North to South Island Rail & Coach Tour

10 Day Fly, Rail & Coach Tour from Auckland to Christchurch, showcasing New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, geothermal highlights and breathtaking coastal scenery.

  • Low Deposit From $499* pp
  • Bonus Savings | $3500
  • Travel in Oct 26 - Apr 27

Book By 31 May 2026

Select Dates October 26 - April 27

Product Code: MT-2416

FLEXIBLE BOOKING

Low Deposits^ & No My Cruises Cancellation Fees#

LEARN MORE

10 Day North to South Island Rail & Coach Tour

10 Day Fly, Rail & Coach Tour from Auckland to Christchurch, showcasing New Zealand’s diverse landscapes, geothermal highlights and breathtaking coastal scenery.

  • Low Deposit From $499* pp
  • Bonus Savings | $3500
  • Travel in Oct 26 - Apr 27

FLEXIBLE BOOKING

Low Deposits^ & No My Cruises Cancellation Fees#

LEARN MORE

Package Inclusions Open All

Return economy flights to Auckland, returning from Christchurch

Experience New Zealand from Auckland to Christchurch on a journey that brings together the North Island’s most engaging regions, cultural experiences, and well-paced travel before continuing south by ferry and rail. Begin in Auckland with time to explore its waterfront and city precincts, then travel through the Coromandel region to Whangamata and onward into the Bay of Plenty and Rotorua, where geothermal activity and Māori cultural experiences are featured, along with a visit to the National Kiwi Hatchery. Continue through the Waikato to the Hobbiton Movie Set, then on to New Plymouth with time to explore its parks, coastal walkway and views toward Mount Taranaki. Travel south via Whanganui and Levin to Wellington, where there is time to experience the capital at leisure. From Wellington, cross Cook Strait by Interislander ferry through the Marlborough Sounds and continue by Coastal Pacific Train along the coastline and vineyards into Christchurch, completing the journey with a mix of cultural experiences, regional travel and iconic rail and ferry connections.

  • Return economy flights to Auckland, returning from Christchurch
  • 9 Nights in hand-selected 3.5 – 4* hotels
  • Breakfast daily, 1 Lunches and 4 dinners
  • Deluxe coach transport, guided sightseeing and admission as per itinerary
  • English-speaking tour leader from Day 2 to Day 10
  • Inter-Islander ferry ticket from Wellington to Picton
  • Coastal Pacific rail ticket in Scenic Class
  • Explore vibrant Auckland — Bastion Point, Auckland Domain and the harbourfront
  • Visit the beach town of Whangamatā on the Coromandel Peninsula
  • Discover the beauty of Tauranga & Mount Maunganui
  • Learn about the endangered Kiwi bird on a guided tour of the National Kiwi Hatchery
  • Cruise along Lake Rotoiti to visit a geothermal spring only reachable by boat in Rotorua
  • Immerse yourself in Māori culture with a traditional Hangi meal at Te Whakarewarewa
  • Wander through the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set
  • Discover New Plymouth’s scenic and cultural highlights, from Mount Taranaki to the beautiful Pukekura Park
  • Jump aboard a 1953 classic wooden rescue boat into the Tasman Sea for a Wildlife Cruise
  • Ride the historic Durie Hill Elevator in Whanganui for sweeping views
  • Stop at Mackintosh’s Liquorice Factory in Levin for a nostalgic treat
  • Discover Wellington — the “coolest little capital in the world”
  • Cruise the Marlborough Sounds on the Interislander Ferry
  • Journey aboard the world-renowned Coastal Pacific train from Picton to Christchurch
Itinerary Map

Your Itinerary

Itinerary Map
Itinerary Map

Open All

 
Arrival Auckland

Arrive at your leisure in New Zealand’s largest city and make your own way from Auckland Airport to the city centre. Getting into the CBD is easy, with options including the SkyDrive Express Bus offering a direct service, taxis or ride-shares for a quick and convenient transfer, or public transport via bus and train for a budget-friendly choice.
Settle in for a relaxed evening, or for early arrivals enjoy a stroll through vibrant Britomart or Wynyard Quarter. If time allows, take in panoramic views from the iconic Sky Tower or hop on a ferry to Waiheke Island to sample its renowned wines.

Meals: None

 
Auckland to Whangamata

This morning, meet your group and tour leader before enjoying a brief Auckland city tour, including Bastion Point, Auckland Domain, and the harbourfront. Travel southeast to the stunning Coromandel Peninsula, known for its rugged coastlines and lush native forest. Arrive at the charming holiday town of Whangamata in Coromandel. Conclude the day with a relaxed dinner at a local club.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 
Whangamata to Rotorua via Tauranga

Journey through the Bay of Plenty, pausing in Tauranga and the laid-back seaside haven of Mount Maunganui. Continue on to Rotorua, the cultural and geothermal heart of New Zealand’s North Island. On arrival, enjoy a private guided experience at the National Kiwi Hatchery, where you’ll learn about the important conservation efforts protecting New Zealand’s treasured native bird.

Meals: Breakfast

 
Lake Rotoiti Cruise & Te Whakarewarewa Thermal Village

Begin the day with a tranquil cruise across beautiful Lake Rotoiti with Pure Cruise, gliding to a secluded geothermal spring accessible only by boat. Pause at the charming Lake Rotoiti Store before returning to Rotorua. This afternoon, immerse yourself in Māori culture with a traditional hāngī meal and guided experience at Te Whakarewarewa, a living thermal village alive with steaming vents, bubbling mud pools and rich cultural heritage.

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

 
Rotorua to New Plymouth via Hobbiton

Travel through the lush green landscapes of the Waikato region to the enchanting world of Middle-earth for a guided tour of the world-famous Hobbiton Movie Set, where the magic of The Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit comes to life. Later, continue to New Plymouth, a vibrant coastal city set beneath the dramatic backdrop of majestic Mount Taranaki.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 
Explore New Plymouth

Spend the day uncovering the charm and creativity of New Plymouth. Visit the world-renowned Bowl of Brooklands, a stunning natural amphitheatre set within the lush surrounds of Pukekura Park. Enjoy a scenic stroll along the Coastal Walkway to the photogenic Te Rewa Rewa Bridge, an elegant architectural landmark perfectly framing views of Mount Taranaki. Later, head out on a wildlife tour, taking in spectacular coastal scenery and unique views back toward Taranaki from the ocean.

Meals: Breakfast

 
New Plymouth to Wellington

Depart New Plymouth and journey south along the picturesque State Highway 3. Pause in Whanganui, one of New Zealand’s oldest settlements, where you may choose to ride the historic Durie Hill Elevator for sweeping views across the river and surrounding countryside. Continue via the town of Levin, making a sweet stop at Mackintosh’s Liquorice Factory, a nostalgic Kiwi favourite. Later this afternoon, arrive in Wellington, New Zealand’s vibrant capital, and settle into your centrally located hotel for a relaxing two-night stay.

Meals: Breakfast

 
Discover Wellington

Enjoy time at leisure to experience Wellington at your own pace, perhaps wander through the acclaimed Te Papa Museum, browse boutique stores, or soak up the lively atmosphere along the waterfront. This evening, rejoin your group for dinner at the hotel, a welcoming local favourite known for its warm hospitality and delicious cuisine.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 
Wellington to Christchurch via Interislander Ferry and Coastal Pacific Train

This morning, depart Wellington aboard the iconic Interislander ferry, cruising across Wellington Harbour and through the breathtaking Marlborough Sounds en route to Picton. From here, connect with the Coastal Pacific Train and settle in for one of New Zealand’s most spectacular rail journeys. Travel alongside a rugged coastline and through Marlborough’s rolling vineyards, with the Pacific Ocean often just metres from the tracks. Sit back, relax, and enjoy ever-changing coastal towns and dramatic landscapes before arriving in Christchurch, the South Island’s vibrant garden city.

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

 
Depart Christchurch

Today marks the conclusion of your journey in Christchurch. After checking out of your hotel by 10:00 am, make your own way to the airport for your onward travel. Depending on your schedule, you might have time to explore the city at your own pace — perhaps strolling through the Botanic Gardens or along the vibrant riverside — before departing with wonderful memories of your time in New Zealand.

Meals: Breakfast

See full itinerary

Important Info Open All

Price based on tours starting:

  • 31 October 2026
  • 14 November 2026
  • 3 April 2027

Extra charges apply for:

  • 23 January 2027 ($100pp)
  • 20 March 2027 ($100pp)

Price based on departing from Brisbane, Melbourne, Sydney

Extra charges apply for:

  • Adelaide ($200pp)
  • Perth ($600pp)

Itinerary
Our multi-stop tours in New Zealand are meticulously planned to highlight the awe-inspiring landscapes and cultural diversity of each region. Each day presents a varied schedule, featuring scenic coach journeys necessary for reaching certain destinations. This tour provides a perfect balance of guided sightseeing and leisure time, allowing you to fully engage with the magnificent scenery and vibrant local culture.

Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several regions in New Zealand and involves some early starts and some long travel days.

Fitness
A moderate level of fitness is required. You are required to move about unassisted, including boarding and exiting/disembarking vehicles and other forms of transportation, walking up and down flights of stairs, and navigating occasional uneven or steep terrain.

This trip is not suitable for travellers requiring a wheelchair, mobility scooter, or specialised facilities. Other walking aids may be permitted if you are able to move independently and keep pace with the group. Please note there will be a fair amount of walking, and some locations will have stairs. If you have any health concerns, let us know when booking so we can help confirm if this trip is suitable for you.

Transfers
Airport transfers are NOT included.

  • Auckland – Oaks Auckland or similar
  • Whangamata – Palm Pacific Hotel or similar
  • Rotorua – Sudima Hotel Rotorua or similar
  • New Plymouth – Distinction New Plymouth Hotel or similar
  • Wellington – Ibis Wellington or similar
  • Christchurch – Scenic Hotel Cotswold or similar

Note: The accommodation mentioned above is subject to change. Please refer to your Hotel List provided to you at the time of Final Documentation sent no later than 30 days prior to departure.

A single supplement from $1400*pp is payable in addition to the twin share price for solo occupancy.

Exclusions
Meals not stated, beverages, optional programs, travel insurance (strongly recommended), tipping, personal expenses and anything not explicitly specified are at your own expense.

Payment
A first deposit from $499 per person is required to secure your booking. A second deposit (partial payment) is due 10 months before departure – the amount to be advised at the time of booking. The final balance will be due 5 months before departure. Full payment is due at the time of booking for departures within 5 months.

Pace
The pace of this tour is moderate. The tour covers several regions in New Zealand and involves some early starts and some long travel days – see the itinerary for an indication of the day by day travels on the premium coach. One to two nights at each destination is standard. Scheduled free days allow some downtime, or alternatively, you have the flexibility to explore further and book optional sightseeing (at your own expense).

Tipping
Tipping in New Zealand is not mandatory however it is recommended as a gesture of appreciation for the service provided by your Tour Leader/local guides.

Triple Share
Triple share is not available.

Extra Accommodation
Unfortunately, pre and post group tour accommodation is not available. You may wish to book your own pre and post tour accommodation however, the group hotels are finalised no later than 30 days prior to departure.

Child
This tour is best enjoyed by adult travellers and is not suitable for children under 8 years of age. Children 8 years and above are subject to the adult price and must be accompanied by an adult.

Price
Surcharges may apply for select travel periods and departure cities. Prices are correct at time of publication and are subject to availability, change, cancellation or withdrawal without notice. All prices are in Australian dollars per person twin share unless stated otherwise.

Amendment
Changes for any reason will incur a fee of $110 per person per change in addition to any travel service provider fees.

Cancellation
Cancellation for any reason will incur a fee of $550 per person in addition to any travel service provider fees. Travel service provider fees for the tour and air components of the package are dependent on the date of the change or cancellation as follows:

  • 0-29 days before departure 100% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 30-60 days before departure 65% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 61-99 days before departure 50% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply
  • 100-180 days before departure 30% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply

181+ days before departure 10% of the tour fee and 100% of the air fee will apply

Airfares are generally non-refundable but any refundable ticket taxes will be returned. Full details of the change and cancellation fees is outlined in the Terms & Conditions available on our website

Deviation
Any request to deviate from the original dates or routing, including early arrival and extending your stay, is subject to a flight deviation fee from $150 per person plus applicable airfare and tax difference. Packaged tour extensions are not subject to the deviation fee (applicable airfare and tax difference may still apply) if booked according to the original advertised dates and routing.

Passport
For international travel, each customer must provide a copy of the passport photo page at the time of booking. It is the responsibility of the customer to ensure all names are full names exactly matched to the passport with six months validity beyond trip completion. The customer is liable for all fees due to incorrect names, invalid passport information and expired passports.

Visa
A visa is generally not required for Australian passport holders visiting New Zealand for the purpose of short-term tourism, however, this policy is subject to change without notice. Visa requirements for each origin and destination country are the responsibility of the customer to check and obtain (if required) with the local consulate or embassy. The customer is liable for all visa application costs and fees due to the failure to obtain the required travel documents.

Health
It is the responsibility of the customer to check and comply with the health, vaccination, COVID-19 and immigration requirements of each origin and destination country, and health requirements imposed by air, tour, cruise and accommodation providers. Vaccinations, testing and quarantine costs are the expense of the customer. Comprehensive travel insurance with COVID-19 coverage is strongly recommended.

Baggage
Each person is entitled to a strict maximum of one bag not exceeding 20kg on tour, superseding any other baggage allowance. Excess baggage is not permitted. You are strongly encouraged to pack lightly. An additional light day bag or backpack is permitted on the coach. Porterage is not included, and you are required to carry your own bags. Luggage and personal effects are your own risk, and we hold no liability for lost or damaged belongings.

Transfers
Airport transfers are not included.

Meals
Breakfast is offered by the accommodation and is typically buffet style. There are limited vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free and lactose-free options. For meals not included, you will be taken to places with options where possible. Please notify us at the time of booking of any special dietary requirements and allergies. We endeavour to pass on your dietary requirements but cannot guarantee that they can be met as certain choices may be limited or not catered for. You are required to reconfirm dietary requests with your Tour Guide whilst on tour.

Accommodation
All hotel rooms will feature either a twin room (two single beds) or a double room (1 double bed). All bedding requests cannot be guaranteed however all special requests should be made known at time of booking. All rooms are lead-in category or run of house unless otherwise specified. Hotel names mentioned are indicative and subject to change, with final group tour hotels being confirmed on your final documentation. All hotel ratings are local or self-ratings provided by the supplier. The standard check-in time is from 3pm and check-out is prior to 10am.

International Flights
Flights are booked approximately 8 to 10 months prior to departure. The flights included in your package are based on a specific predetermined airfare allowance. Should there be a significant increase in airfares, fuel levies, taxes or government fees at the time of booking flights, then an airfare supplement may be imposed. The flights team will discuss options with you prior to ticketing, should this situation arise. Flights may not operate daily or directly to your destination. No show of any flight sectors will result in the automatic cancellation of all onward flights by the airline.

Fuel
In the unlikely event of a significant increase in fuel costs levied by third-party air, land and cruise transportation operators before travel, a fuel supplement may be passed on to the customer.

Group Size
You will meet like-minded travellers on tour and may even make lifelong friends. This holiday will proceed with a minimum group size of 12 passengers and a maximum group size of 32 passengers. If the tour does not operate, you will be offered a credit. The operation of optional programs is subject to a minimum group size. If the minimum number for optional programs is not reached, you will be refunded.

Optional Tours
Optional Tours will be payable directly to your Tour Leader in New Zealand. In the event that some programs or venues may not be available, alternative programs may be offered or the Tour Leader. For any passenger not participating in optional programs, they will be directed by the Tour Leader with where to remain until the optional program with other passengers attending is complete or enjoy the free time.

Itinerary
The operating schedule and itinerary may be impacted without notice by adverse weather, seasonal factors, closures, local conditions, COVID-19 or other factors beyond our control including force majeure. If attractions are not available due to reasons beyond our control such as closures or adverse weather, alternatives will be provided where possible. The itinerary and its order, sightseeing and transportation may be adjusted as deemed appropriate by the operator for optimum safety, enjoyment and operation. Any reference to ‘optional’, ‘not included’ or ‘exclusions/excluded’ means at your own expense.

Train and Ferry Transportation
Please note that in the event of train or ferry disruptions, your itinerary may be adjusted to include a flight or coach transfer. Due to weather conditions or scheduled track and ferry maintenance, certain services may not operate as planned. Your tour leader will advise you of any changes upon arrival in your destination to ensure your journey continues safely and smoothly.

Breakaway
Customers must remain with the tour group at all times and must not leave the tour unless written approval is provided before departure.

Documentation
Final documentation will be emailed 30 days prior to departure which includes a final hotel list, return flight itinerary and invoice with day by day itinerary.

Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is strongly recommended. Ask our holiday experts for great coverage options.

Force Majeure
Force majeure means any natural disaster, accident, fire, act of God, act of war, terrorism, legally binding judgment, injunction, action of a court or other relevant authority, emergency, unplanned repairs, maintenance, strike, industrial dispute, work ban, blockade or picketing, travel ban, pandemic, epidemic or outbreak of infectious disease, or other event beyond our reasonable direct or indirect control. In case of force majeure or other extraordinary event that prevents safe travel, the supplier reserves the right to adjust, postpone or cancel the trip.


*
price is per person twin share
*
single traveller surcharge from $1,400*pp

Product Code: MT-2416

From $4,599 *pp Valued at $6349
Book By 31 May 2026

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*
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10 Day North to South Island Rail & Coach Tour


Enquiry Details.

Days 10

Adults 2

Children 0

Departure Point Sydney

Preferred Departure Date 31-10-2026


From $4,599.00

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